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Fog Lake Suspense #2
Margin of Error
Some secrets have deadly consequences.
Brynlee Parker thought her biggest challenge would be hiking to Dead Man’s Bluff and fulfilling her dad’s last wishes. She never thought she’d witness two men being viciously murdered while on a mountainous trail. Even worse, the deadly predator is now hunting her.
Boone Wilder wants nothing to do with Dead Man’s Bluff, not after his wife died there. But he can’t seem to mind his own business when a mysterious out-of-towner burst into his camp store in a frenzied panic. Something—or someone—deadly is out there.
The killer’s hunger for blood seems to be growing at a brutal pace. Can Brynlee and Boone figure out who’s behind these murders? Or will the hurts and secrets from their past not allow for even a margin of error?
Brynlee Parker thought her biggest challenge would be hiking to Dead Man’s Bluff and fulfilling her dad’s last wishes. She never thought she’d witness two men being viciously murdered while on a mountainous trail. Even worse, the deadly predator is now hunting her.
Boone Wilder wants nothing to do with Dead Man’s Bluff, not after his wife died there. But he can’t seem to mind his own business when a mysterious out-of-towner burst into his camp store in a frenzied panic. Something—or someone—deadly is out there.
The killer’s hunger for blood seems to be growing at a brutal pace. Can Brynlee and Boone figure out who’s behind these murders? Or will the hurts and secrets from their past not allow for even a margin of error?
392 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 1, 2021
819 people are currently reading
206 people want to read
About the author
Christy Barritt
328 books1,660 followersChristy Barritt is an author, freelance writer and speaker who lives in Virginia. She’s married to her Prince Charming, a man who thinks she’s hilarious—but only when she’s not trying to be. Christy’s a self-proclaimed klutz, an avid music lover who’s known for spontaneously bursting into song, and a road trip aficionado. She’s only won one contest in her life—and her prize was kissing a pig (okay, okay… actually she did win the Daphne du Maurier Award for Excellence in Suspense and Mystery also). Her current claim to fame is showing off her mother, who looks just like former First Lady Barbara Bush
When she’s not working or spending time with her family, she enjoys singing, playing the guitar, and exploring small, unsuspecting towns where people have no idea how accident prone she is.
When she’s not working or spending time with her family, she enjoys singing, playing the guitar, and exploring small, unsuspecting towns where people have no idea how accident prone she is.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 121 reviews
July 19, 2019
This was so good! The author kept me guessing on who was behind all of it for a long time. Okay, actually almost the entire book.
Definitely a good read. Part of the Fog Lake Mysteries, but can be read independently.
Definitely a good read. Part of the Fog Lake Mysteries, but can be read independently.
July 31, 2019
Well, that was a bit of a disappointment after how great the first book was.
October 5, 2022
I am really enjoying this series. I did not see the villain coming in this one, and I kicked myself for not once the reveal came. S/he is definitely scarier than the villain in book one.
July 10, 2025
Blog Post: https://fictionwithphoebe.com/margin-...
Boone Wilder knows all too well how dangerous Dead Man’s Bluff can be. But a far more malicious threat is stalking newcomer Brynlee Parker. They’ll need to put their differences aside, if they want to make it off the mountain alive.
My favorite part of this book was the mystery. There were a few possible suspects, which kept me guessing for awhile.
Unfortunately, I didn’t like the romance as much. Some of Boone and Brynlee’s reactions toward each other seemed slightly unreasonable to me. And Brynlee not telling Boone her real reasons for coming to Fog Lake (even though she had plenty of chances) was a bit frustrating. Also, Boone’s reconciliation with his late wife’s family felt rather rushed.
Still, I thought the scene with the blueberry muffin and naming the tree after Katherine were sweet gestures.
It will be interesting to see how Boone’s fiery younger sister Ansley handles her own mystery in the next book.
Favorite Moments:
🧗 Hiking to Dead Man’s Bluff
🧗 Trouble on the Razor Back
🧗 Blueberry muffin
Content Notes:
chapters from the villain’s POV (showing their messed up thought process), mention of “joints,” mention of lewd and perverse jokes (not specified), blood, death of a parent, mention of bars and drunk men trying to take advantage, descriptions of violence, death of a spouse, mention of a person’s ashes, deaths and dying, mention of Native American legends, noticing, mention of Bigfoot, Brynlee hires Boone as security and he stays at her rental chalet (nothing inappropriate happens), mention of a town being “cursed” and “haunted,” some mild innuendo, suspected bear attacks, mention of a tattoo, mention of “ghost tours,” noticing and awareness, kissing, touching, guns and mention of mental illness
Boone Wilder knows all too well how dangerous Dead Man’s Bluff can be. But a far more malicious threat is stalking newcomer Brynlee Parker. They’ll need to put their differences aside, if they want to make it off the mountain alive.
My favorite part of this book was the mystery. There were a few possible suspects, which kept me guessing for awhile.
Unfortunately, I didn’t like the romance as much. Some of Boone and Brynlee’s reactions toward each other seemed slightly unreasonable to me. And Brynlee not telling Boone her real reasons for coming to Fog Lake (even though she had plenty of chances) was a bit frustrating. Also, Boone’s reconciliation with his late wife’s family felt rather rushed.
Still, I thought the scene with the blueberry muffin and naming the tree after Katherine were sweet gestures.
It will be interesting to see how Boone’s fiery younger sister Ansley handles her own mystery in the next book.
Favorite Moments:
🧗 Hiking to Dead Man’s Bluff
🧗 Trouble on the Razor Back
🧗 Blueberry muffin
Content Notes:
chapters from the villain’s POV (showing their messed up thought process), mention of “joints,” mention of lewd and perverse jokes (not specified), blood, death of a parent, mention of bars and drunk men trying to take advantage, descriptions of violence, death of a spouse, mention of a person’s ashes, deaths and dying, mention of Native American legends, noticing, mention of Bigfoot, Brynlee hires Boone as security and he stays at her rental chalet (nothing inappropriate happens), mention of a town being “cursed” and “haunted,” some mild innuendo, suspected bear attacks, mention of a tattoo, mention of “ghost tours,” noticing and awareness, kissing, touching, guns and mention of mental illness
July 15, 2019
Christy Barritt is a wonderful author of romantic suspense. She crafts reoccurring characters that sit and dwell in the reader's heart for a long time. Luckily, Barritt creates tons of stories with the same characters for readers to really know well. With her latest release Margin of Error, the characters didn't appear in other novels. They are brand new characters. While I usually have a wonderful time getting lost in the mystery and the hunt for the bad guy, in Margin of Error, that wasn't the case. I felt a little overwhelmed with the romance and the buildup of that relationship. It seemed to take over the whole story. At certain times, I felt like the mystery wasn't that important to the story. This story wasn't written in the typical Barritt style. While I know every story isn't always going to be a hit out of the park by every author, this just happened to be a miss for me by Barritt.
February 20, 2022
3.5 stars
"What are you doing here, if you don't mind me asking?"
It was a shame that Brynlee Parker couldn't tell the entire truth even though she could share a portion of it. She had come to Dead Man's Bluff to spread her father's ashes, but the other reason needed to remain in her backpack . . . . the backpack that she had dropped when she ran for her life off that mountain. . . . after she saw that horrible creature maul two young men, and then turn its sights on her.
Boone Wilder didn't know what to think about the severely traumatized woman who burst into his mountainside shop. Her story? It sounded crazy, but then again the two bodies had been found exactly where she described they would be. No one wants to think that tragedy has returned to Fog Lake, but apparently Brynlee is being hunted . . . by the legendary Skookum no less.
You'll find yourself running through these pages at a very fast pace! There's absolutely no "margin of error"!
"What are you doing here, if you don't mind me asking?"
It was a shame that Brynlee Parker couldn't tell the entire truth even though she could share a portion of it. She had come to Dead Man's Bluff to spread her father's ashes, but the other reason needed to remain in her backpack . . . . the backpack that she had dropped when she ran for her life off that mountain. . . . after she saw that horrible creature maul two young men, and then turn its sights on her.
Boone Wilder didn't know what to think about the severely traumatized woman who burst into his mountainside shop. Her story? It sounded crazy, but then again the two bodies had been found exactly where she described they would be. No one wants to think that tragedy has returned to Fog Lake, but apparently Brynlee is being hunted . . . by the legendary Skookum no less.
You'll find yourself running through these pages at a very fast pace! There's absolutely no "margin of error"!
February 22, 2020
"Margin of Error" is book two in the Fog Lake Mysteries by Christy Barritt. Brynlee Parker was hiking to Dead Man's Bluff to fulfil her father's dying wish when she witnesses the killing of two men on the walking track Brynlee rashed down the trail to Boone Wilder's camping store. For Brynlee and Boone, this encounter changes both their lives forever. The readers of "Margin of Error" will continue to follow Brynlee and Boone to find out what happens.
"Margin of Error" is the first book I have read of Christy Barritt and I did enjoy reading this book. I love Christy Barritt portrayal of her characters and the way they intertwine with each other throughout this book. The description of the setting of this book was done well by Christy Barritt. "Margin of Error" was well written and researched by Christy Barritt. "Margin of Error" is another new series to be added to my growing TBR list.
The readers of "Margin of Error" will learn about the consequences of childhood neglect on a child. Also, the readers of "Margin of Error" will learn about running camping store and hiking in rugged terrain.
I recommend this book.
"Margin of Error" is the first book I have read of Christy Barritt and I did enjoy reading this book. I love Christy Barritt portrayal of her characters and the way they intertwine with each other throughout this book. The description of the setting of this book was done well by Christy Barritt. "Margin of Error" was well written and researched by Christy Barritt. "Margin of Error" is another new series to be added to my growing TBR list.
The readers of "Margin of Error" will learn about the consequences of childhood neglect on a child. Also, the readers of "Margin of Error" will learn about running camping store and hiking in rugged terrain.
I recommend this book.
July 21, 2021
Another interesting read from Christy Barritt
August 1, 2022
This one was a bit too scary for me…not a fan of bears. It was a good mystery but not as good as the first book.
July 10, 2019
Scary good! Although readers do not need to read the 1st book in the series, it will increase enjoyment to know a bit about the town and people. When Fog Lake finally roots out the sinister characters, this will be an idyllic location for a private vacation or to raise a family. Too many strange and deadly events have plagued the town and its residents.
Christy Barritt hits hard on the themes of honesty and forgiveness with illustrations of how harmful secrets and life-long wounds can be. Enjoy reading scenes of the Appalachian views so tangible that you can take a mini mountain vacation from your armchair. Just watch where you step!
I received a complimentary copy of the book without obligation. This review is my opinion.
Christy Barritt hits hard on the themes of honesty and forgiveness with illustrations of how harmful secrets and life-long wounds can be. Enjoy reading scenes of the Appalachian views so tangible that you can take a mini mountain vacation from your armchair. Just watch where you step!
I received a complimentary copy of the book without obligation. This review is my opinion.
July 15, 2019
A good clean romantic suspense
I really enjoy Christy Barritt’s books, but I have been a little disappointed with the lack of spiritual writing in this series. It is still nice to enjoy a clean read though!
I really enjoy Christy Barritt’s books, but I have been a little disappointed with the lack of spiritual writing in this series. It is still nice to enjoy a clean read though!
September 16, 2022
I love this cute little mountain town setting! This series is quick-paced and suspenseful without being over the top! I love the tie-ins to the land and how it’s formed the town folks ways of thinking. The only thing I didn’t love is the cover. It doesn’t do the mountains town setting justice.
July 7, 2019
An eerie mystery with great atmosphere. Hoping a third volume in the series arrives soon.
July 3, 2025
The Fog Lake series continues with the story of Luke’s brother. Boone was an interesting side character in book one, someone with a tragic past that I hoped would be explored further as the series progressed.
As this novel begins, Brynlee arrives with a secret agenda. It’s not long before her life is in peril from what the locals call a skookum—a legendary cryptid that’s best described as a humanoid bear beast.
Because she’s being hunted by someone or something and the sheriff’s department has limited resources, Luke suggests she hire Boone—a former Army Ranger and exceptional outdoorsman—as private security. Despite their differences, she needs the protection and he needs the money.
They grow fond of each other, then their feelings deepen. He overcomes his past and is willing to give romance a shot, but the secret she’s kept threatens to tear them permanently apart. All the while, one suspect after another is considered then discarded, and her life remains on the line.
The two main characters have strong arcs, though I wouldn’t have minded more development of side characters. The town is too small to ignore them, especially as the series grows. The plot progressed at a steady pace. The danger and violence were mild, as were the faith elements. Language was clean, and physical intimacy was limited to a few kisses. Most readers will have no issues with any graphic content.
I’m enjoying this series and look forward to the next story set in this tight-knit community.
As this novel begins, Brynlee arrives with a secret agenda. It’s not long before her life is in peril from what the locals call a skookum—a legendary cryptid that’s best described as a humanoid bear beast.
Because she’s being hunted by someone or something and the sheriff’s department has limited resources, Luke suggests she hire Boone—a former Army Ranger and exceptional outdoorsman—as private security. Despite their differences, she needs the protection and he needs the money.
They grow fond of each other, then their feelings deepen. He overcomes his past and is willing to give romance a shot, but the secret she’s kept threatens to tear them permanently apart. All the while, one suspect after another is considered then discarded, and her life remains on the line.
The two main characters have strong arcs, though I wouldn’t have minded more development of side characters. The town is too small to ignore them, especially as the series grows. The plot progressed at a steady pace. The danger and violence were mild, as were the faith elements. Language was clean, and physical intimacy was limited to a few kisses. Most readers will have no issues with any graphic content.
I’m enjoying this series and look forward to the next story set in this tight-knit community.
November 1, 2024
This is me, slowly (like at a snail’s pace) catching up with Christy Barritt’s backlist. I read the first book in the Fog Lake Mysteries series about four years ago and I’ve never forgotten it. Loved the eerie vibe in that book and the way the author set things up for future books. So, why has it been on my TBR wishlist for so long? I have no idea! But here I am years later finally getting back to Fog Lake and in some ways it felt like I never left.
And I was really excited for Boone’s story. He’s the kind of tortured soul hero that makes my heart ache and my pulse spike. Taciturn and grumpy, he’s hoarding a world of hurt but he can’t dodge the knight in shining armour gene. Cue Brynlee’s frantic entry into his camp store with a tall tale that sounds preposterous but she’s clearly terrified…and, phew, we’re off on an incredible twisty turny ride.
Creepy stalker vibe all the way! Love the unusual twist to the suspense –made it all the more edgier. And Barritt kept me on my toes trying to figure out what was going on and who the murderer was.
And Brynlee and Boone! Swoony sigh. Loved the romance for all it’s angstiness and Brynlee’s secret threatens to pull them apart. So many dimensions to their relationship that made their hard won happily ever after so satisfying.
I listened to the audible edition of this book expertly narrated by Sandy Rustin. She brought these characters to life and delivered a thrilling listening experience.
And I was really excited for Boone’s story. He’s the kind of tortured soul hero that makes my heart ache and my pulse spike. Taciturn and grumpy, he’s hoarding a world of hurt but he can’t dodge the knight in shining armour gene. Cue Brynlee’s frantic entry into his camp store with a tall tale that sounds preposterous but she’s clearly terrified…and, phew, we’re off on an incredible twisty turny ride.
Creepy stalker vibe all the way! Love the unusual twist to the suspense –made it all the more edgier. And Barritt kept me on my toes trying to figure out what was going on and who the murderer was.
And Brynlee and Boone! Swoony sigh. Loved the romance for all it’s angstiness and Brynlee’s secret threatens to pull them apart. So many dimensions to their relationship that made their hard won happily ever after so satisfying.
I listened to the audible edition of this book expertly narrated by Sandy Rustin. She brought these characters to life and delivered a thrilling listening experience.
March 2, 2020
My thoughts (LVH): MARGIN OF ERROR is the second book in this series, but it stands alone. As with the other two books I read in the series, it starts with a serious creepy vibe. However, it never gets super scary, so I was able to sleep at night. As with Ms. Barritt's other books, the pace is quick, and readers will need to find a block of time to just read.
There are plenty of red herrings and I didn't guess who-dun-it until it was revealed.
Grab your copy of MARGIN OF ERROR today, or the other books in this engaging series.
I was given a copy free. All opinions are my own.
MARGIN OF ERROR is the second book in this series, but it stands alone. As with the other two books I read in the series, it starts with a serious creepy vibe. However, it never gets super scary, so I was able to sleep at night. As with Ms. Barritt's other books, the pace is quick, and readers will need to find a block of time to just read.
There are plenty of red herrings and I didn't guess who-dun-it until it was revealed.
Grab your copy of MARGIN OF ERROR today, or the other books in this engaging series.
I was given a copy free. All opinions are my own.
March 3, 2022
Good
While I've enjoyed two books now by this author, I do find her to be repetitive at times. For example, you're reading about how the protagonist is feeling or what she's thinking and two sentences later its repeated in almost exactly the same wording. I found that annoying and disruptive to the flow of the story. It just seemed to jump out at me. I actually felt more chemistry between the characters in this second book. I also love how her killers are hiding in plain sight. Do you see it coming? Frankly yes, but not right away. Its intriguing and mysterious. The setting of fog lake is perfect though not quite as eerie on the mountainside as it was on the fog covered lake itself. The protagonists back story was spot on and interesting as well as the "skookums". Will definitely be completing the series.
While I've enjoyed two books now by this author, I do find her to be repetitive at times. For example, you're reading about how the protagonist is feeling or what she's thinking and two sentences later its repeated in almost exactly the same wording. I found that annoying and disruptive to the flow of the story. It just seemed to jump out at me. I actually felt more chemistry between the characters in this second book. I also love how her killers are hiding in plain sight. Do you see it coming? Frankly yes, but not right away. Its intriguing and mysterious. The setting of fog lake is perfect though not quite as eerie on the mountainside as it was on the fog covered lake itself. The protagonists back story was spot on and interesting as well as the "skookums". Will definitely be completing the series.
September 25, 2023
This is the 2nd in the series about Fog Lake, TN. This one is about Luke's brother, Boone.
Boone owns a fishing/general store there at the bottom of the Dead Man's Bluff. But, now is business is in trouble because he has to fund the cost of the rocks that are sliding down the mountain.
Brynlee Parker arrives in Fog Lake to hike to Dead Man's Bluff to scatter her father's ashes. Little does she know that on the hike there, her life will be put in danger as she witnesses a bear like creature killing two men. She has to run for life. Now the predator is hunting her and she must hire someone to cover her back why she is in Fog Lake, as she has another secret she is keeping as to why she came to this town.
Boone owns a fishing/general store there at the bottom of the Dead Man's Bluff. But, now is business is in trouble because he has to fund the cost of the rocks that are sliding down the mountain.
Brynlee Parker arrives in Fog Lake to hike to Dead Man's Bluff to scatter her father's ashes. Little does she know that on the hike there, her life will be put in danger as she witnesses a bear like creature killing two men. She has to run for life. Now the predator is hunting her and she must hire someone to cover her back why she is in Fog Lake, as she has another secret she is keeping as to why she came to this town.
April 15, 2020
History, folklore, crime and love
The second story focuses on Brooks and a newcomer with old ties to the community. A folklore has come to life and is attacking hikers, and the town is protecting Brylnn from danger. Secrets exist on all sides, but determination and romance is blooming.
This story is fast paced and has a great blend of folklore and crime. Both main characters are also dealing with loss and trying to trust themselves on why they saw and feel. This is a good read and very interesting series!
The second story focuses on Brooks and a newcomer with old ties to the community. A folklore has come to life and is attacking hikers, and the town is protecting Brylnn from danger. Secrets exist on all sides, but determination and romance is blooming.
This story is fast paced and has a great blend of folklore and crime. Both main characters are also dealing with loss and trying to trust themselves on why they saw and feel. This is a good read and very interesting series!
February 8, 2021
I enjoyed Margin of Error, Book Two of Christy Barritt's Fog Lake Mysteries. The author keeps us guessing until the very end about who the villain is. In fact, it's unclear if it's man or beast. Excellent job on murking the waters for a fun ride. It's easy to root for the main characters, Boone and Brynlee, and the setting lends itself to deliciously spooky. Looking forward to reading the rest of the series.
January 13, 2023
What in the world is a Skookum?
When Brynlee takes her recently discovered fathers ashes to spread on Dead Man's Bluff she never thought she would see the murder of two men on the way up the mountain. Was that a bear or a man or the legendary Skookum?? Who is trying to kill her? And will Boone be able to save her or will he become a victim as well?!!!
Gripping and a bit scary! It was hard to put this book down.
When Brynlee takes her recently discovered fathers ashes to spread on Dead Man's Bluff she never thought she would see the murder of two men on the way up the mountain. Was that a bear or a man or the legendary Skookum?? Who is trying to kill her? And will Boone be able to save her or will he become a victim as well?!!!
Gripping and a bit scary! It was hard to put this book down.
April 4, 2024
Exceptional second book in the Fog Lake Suspense series by Christy Barritt. If you enjoy Colleen Coble, Dani Pettrey, Dee Henderson, and other Christian romantic suspense authors, you'll really enjoy this book. Although this book is not limited to just Christian readers because the religious talk is limited. I was on the edge of my seat as I read this book, and I finished it in two sittings. I highly recommend it!
September 7, 2021
Another home run ….
I only knew Christy Barrit from Lantern Beach (which I LOVED) so was hesitant to try this series. The second book did not disappoint… the characters are so well developed, the community gives you that warm fuzzy feeling! The cast from the first book continues to draw you in as new cast member join a well told story
I only knew Christy Barrit from Lantern Beach (which I LOVED) so was hesitant to try this series. The second book did not disappoint… the characters are so well developed, the community gives you that warm fuzzy feeling! The cast from the first book continues to draw you in as new cast member join a well told story
February 15, 2020
Margin of Error Book 2🌠🌠🌠🌠🌠5 Stars
Love this series. Love how this brilliant author writes. She is very descriptive in how the mountains with the fog looks. So much so, that I can actually see it in my minds eye.
Love this series. Love how this brilliant author writes. She is very descriptive in how the mountains with the fog looks. So much so, that I can actually see it in my minds eye.
March 10, 2020
I had a free copy of this book, but this is my voluntary and honest opinion. I thoroughly enjoyed the plot and characters in this book. Christy did a great job with the character development and the suspense in the plot. The book certainly held my interest until the end.
March 23, 2020
Another great read from Christy
More murders but was by human or animal? And if human, then by whom? I guess you'll have to read it to find out! Another story with the right amount of mystery and romance!
More murders but was by human or animal? And if human, then by whom? I guess you'll have to read it to find out! Another story with the right amount of mystery and romance!
July 2, 2021
I really enjoyed “Margin of Error” by Christy Barritt! This book had me guessing the entire time. This is the second book in the Fog Lake series but can be read alone.
I highly recommend this book. It was a good, clean, suspenseful novel.
I highly recommend this book. It was a good, clean, suspenseful novel.
September 12, 2021
Fast paced thriller..
This book was go from page one. There was intrigue, small town ties and many unanswered questions from the past. But, faith, perseverance and hope won out. Fast read!
This book was go from page one. There was intrigue, small town ties and many unanswered questions from the past. But, faith, perseverance and hope won out. Fast read!
October 26, 2021
This read was creepy and exciting and perfect for a chilly October day. I really didn't know who the culprit would be till near the end and the story kept me guessing throughout. Fun and mysterious read!
November 20, 2021
Brynlee a promise to a father she just met
A scenic spot to hike to, many deaths here also
A bear or human was on a rage to kill
How many more will die
To preserve or build on site, was that why
Good gripping thriller
A scenic spot to hike to, many deaths here also
A bear or human was on a rage to kill
How many more will die
To preserve or build on site, was that why
Good gripping thriller
Displaying 1 - 30 of 121 reviews